How to Clear Cache on Windows 11: Boost Performance and Free Up Space

If your Windows 11 PC is starting to feel sluggish or your disk space is running low, clearing the cache can be an effective way to revitalize your system. Cache and temporary files accumulate over time, consuming precious storage and potentially causing performance issues. This article explains why clearing cache matters, explores various types of caches and temporary files in Windows 11, and provides detailed step-by-step methods to clear cache safely.

Why Clearing Cache is Important

Cache files are stored to help your computer run faster by saving frequently accessed data. However, over time:
  • Cache can grow to consume significant disk space.
  • Corrupted cache files may cause bugs or slow down system updates.
  • Excess cache can contribute to degraded system performance and longer boot or app launch times.

Regular cache clearing is part of good system maintenance. It frees up disk space, fixes potential bugs caused by corrupted data, and keeps Windows 11 running smoothly.

Understanding Types of Cache and Temporary Files in Windows 11

Windows 11 uses several cache types and stores temporary files including:

  • Delivery Optimization Cache: Holds files for Windows Update peer-to-peer sharing to speed up downloads.
  • Temporary Files: Includes internet cache, setup logs, error reports, and app temporary data.
  • DNS Cache: Stores domain name resolutions to speed up web browsing.
  • Location History Cache: Data for location-based services.

Each cache serves a purpose but can be safely cleared periodically to reclaim space.

How to Clear Cache in Windows 11: Methods

#### 1. Clear Delivery Optimization Cache

This cache helps with Windows Updates but can become large or corrupted.

  • Go to Settings > System > Storage > Temporary Files.
  • Check the box for Delivery Optimization Files.
  • Click Remove Files.

Alternatively, use Command Prompt for manual clearing:

CODEBLOCK0

Restart your PC afterward.

Or delete cache manually:

  • Open File Explorer and navigate to INLINECODE0
  • Select all files and delete permanently.

Disk Cleanup tool also offers this option:

  • Search Disk Cleanup in Start Menu.
  • Choose the system drive.
  • Check Delivery Optimization Files, then click OK.

#### 2. Use Disk Cleanup Utility for General Cache

  • Open Start, type Disk Cleanup, and open it.
  • Select your system drive (usually C:).
  • Choose file types like Temporary Internet Files, Recycle Bin, Thumbnails.
  • Click OK to delete.
  • Use Clean up system files option within the tool for deeper cleanup.

#### 3. Enable and Use Storage Sense for Automated Cleanup

  • Go to Settings > System > Storage.
  • Toggle Storage Sense On.
  • Configure it to clean temporary files, the recycle bin, and downloads folder automatically.
  • Use Run Storage Sense Now for immediate cleanup.

#### 4. Clear DNS Cache

To refresh domain name information:

  • Press INLINECODE1 , type INLINECODE2 , and hit Enter.

#### 5. Clear Location History Cache

  • Open Settings > Privacy & security.
  • Scroll to Location history and click Clear.

Additional Tips to Boost Windows 11 Performance

  • Keep your system updated to ensure bug fixes and performance improvements.
  • Uninstall unused apps and software.
  • Disable unnecessary startup programs.
  • Consider hardware upgrades like SSDs and more RAM if software tweaks are insufficient.

Conclusion

Clearing cache on Windows 11 is a straightforward maintenance task that can free disk space, reduce bugs, and improve overall system speed. Utilizing built-in tools like Storage Sense, Disk Cleanup, and manual methods empowers users to keep their systems optimized. Regular maintenance not only prevents performance degradation but also prepares your PC for future updates and software demands.